One Hour Photo (2002) - A Movie Review

Nobody ever takes a photo of something they want to forget.

One Hour Photo is a 2002 movie. Seymour Parrish, a mentally unstable photo developer, is obsessed with photos of the Yorkin family. His behavior turns stalkerish as he trespasses on their property, asks about family history, and does other disturbing things.

Horror movies only make stranger-danger situations all the more terrifying. One Hour Photo is a dark film that puts photography through a horror lens. The excellent visuals enhance the haunting atmosphere. What are photos capable of doing?

Did you know that Jack Nicholson was the original first choice for the role of Sy Parrish? While Nicholson is a talented actor, this film gave the late Robin Williams a chance to showcase his excellent dramatic chops. He was originally cast in a small part as Sy’s manager, Bill Owens (Gary Cole). Williams was a talented and gifted actor.

Just like how audiences remarked on the film’s Sundance premiere, I also forgot this was Williams. He completely disappeared into the role. He trained as a photo developer for this role. Of course, in true Williams fashion, he improvised comedic takes and played practical jokes on set.

Sy is a broken and disturbed man, with Williams evoking multiple layers of the character. His narration evokes dark commentary. Sy’s character sparks a good question: Is he a villain or misunderstood? His motivations and behavior are by no means acceptable, but with the subtle glimpses of Sy’s past, he is still undergoing trauma.

Connie Nielson, Michael Varton, and Dylan Smith play the Yorkin family, who Sy has literally seen their whole life in photos. Their happiness in the photos isn’t what it looks like at home, with arguments and marital problems. The actors do a good job with their roles, each becoming leery about Sy’s actions.

Mark Romanek had great direction all around. He was also the screenwriter. One Hour Photo spent years in development. I was surprised to learn that this was Romanek’s second feature film as a director, after filming Static (1985). Throughout the years, he has directed music videos. Music videos are about visuals, which Romanek has an eye for.

His best attention in One Hour Photo is the visual work. The cinematography employs impressive camera techniques to enhance the horror. Even though all the images are slow-moving and bright, it still feels like something will jump out at you. Unsettling music opens the film from the start, creating an ominous atmosphere.

This is a movie about photography, which is symbolized well in Jeff Cronenweth’s cinematography. Every image is so bright that it’s alarming. I noticed most of the shots are a faraway. For example, Sy walks down an aisle towards the camera. He acts like a predator. Every frame feels deliberate, with the nature of photography evident throughout the film.

In contrast to horror films, this film is very bright. Almost every background is white. Viewers are not used to light, because horror is set in the dark. Ultimately, One Hour Photo is a masterclass in mood and visual storytelling.

It’s interesting what horror can make scary, even with a normal activity like photography. A photo captures a moment in time. You never know what’s going on in anybody’s life based on a picture. Pictures last forever, but what if you don’t want to hold onto the memory?

This film is unsettling, especially the climax. I felt shivers at times. Viewers may be triggered by Sy’s stalker behavior. The last image leaves an impression. One Hour Photo is a creepy watch, but so worth it, especially for Williams’ performance.